FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — John Calipari secured his first victory as the head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks, ranked 16th in the nation, by overcoming a determined second-half effort from Lipscomb to achieve a 76-60 win on Wednesday evening.
Freshman guard Boogie Fland was instrumental in the win, contributing 17 points, while former Florida Atlantic player Johnell Davis added an impressive 15 points for the Razorbacks.
After leaving the University of Kentucky, where he had faced considerable criticism from fans during visits to Bud Walton Arena, Calipari experienced a warm reception in his new role. His move came on the heels of Eric Musselman’s exit after leading Arkansas to three Sweet 16 appearances in just five years.
Under Calipari’s leadership, the team displayed characteristics reminiscent of his prior coaching successes, signaling a promising season ahead for the Razorbacks.